Colon Cancer Screening & Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, yet it is also one of the most preventable. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition in Century City, Farshid Sam Rahbar, MD, FACP, ABIHM, provides expert colon cancer screening, diagnosis, and integrative support. Using colonoscopy, the gold standard for detection and prevention, our team helps find and remove precancerous polyps early, while a holistic approach supports your overall health.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Colon Cancer?
Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer (CRC), begins in the large intestine or rectum. Most cases start as small growths called polyps, some of which slowly become cancerous over several years. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, and rates have been rising in adults under 50. The encouraging news is that it is also one of the most preventable cancers, because polyps can be found and removed during screening before they ever turn into cancer.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
Early colon cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why routine screening is essential. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- A persistent change in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain, cramping, or gas
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or iron deficiency anemia
Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines
Based on current American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), and international consensus guidelines:
- Average-risk adults: Begin screening at age 45 and continue through age 75. After a normal colonoscopy, repeat every 10 years.
- Family history of CRC or advanced adenoma in a first-degree relative: Begin at age 40, or 10 years before the earliest diagnosis in the family, whichever comes first. Repeat colonoscopy every 5 years.
- Personal history of adenomas or colorectal cancer: Follow a surveillance schedule after polyp removal or surgery, as recommended by your gastroenterologist.
- Inflammatory bowel disease: Patients with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis generally begin surveillance 8 to 10 years after symptoms start and repeat every 1 to 3 years.
- Adults over 75: Screening decisions are individualized based on overall health, prior results, and life expectancy.
Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
Colonoscopy is the only screening test that both detects and prevents colon cancer in a single step. Using a thin, flexible scope with a camera, Dr. Rahbar examines the entire colon, removes polyps, and takes biopsies when needed. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis with sedation for comfort. Review our colonoscopy consent information before scheduling.
Stool-Based Screening Options
For average-risk, symptom-free adults ages 45 to 75 who are unable or unwilling to have a colonoscopy, stool-based tests are valid alternatives:
- FIT (fecal immunochemical test): performed every year; detects hidden blood in the stool.
- gFOBT (guaiac fecal occult blood test): performed every year; detects hidden blood.
- Cologuard (multitarget stool DNA test): an FDA-approved test performed every 1 to 3 years that looks for hidden blood and DNA changes linked to cancer and advanced polyps, with higher sensitivity than FIT.
Any positive stool test requires a follow-up diagnostic colonoscopy. Stool tests are not appropriate for high-risk patients with a history of polyps, colorectal cancer, IBD, or a strong family history. Learn more about all of your options on our colon cancer screening page, and ask about the Galleri multi-cancer early detection test as a complement to recommended screening.
Treatment and Integrative Support
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and your overall health. Many precancerous polyps and very early cancers can be removed completely during colonoscopy. More advanced cancers may require surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation in coordination with oncology specialists. Dr. Rahbar, a board-certified internist and gastroenterologist, integrates conventional care with holistic support, including customized nutrition, inflammation control, and nutritional supplements, to help patients recover and protect their long-term wellness.
Colon Cancer FAQs
At what age should I start colon cancer screening?
Average-risk adults should begin screening at age 45. If a parent, sibling, or child had colorectal cancer or an advanced adenoma, screening usually begins at age 40 or 10 years before their diagnosis, whichever is earlier.
How often do I need a colonoscopy?
After a normal colonoscopy, average-risk adults typically repeat it every 10 years. People at higher risk or with a history of polyps need more frequent exams based on their gastroenterologist’s recommendations.
Is Cologuard as good as a colonoscopy?
Cologuard is a valid option for average-risk adults who cannot or prefer not to have a colonoscopy, but colonoscopy remains the preferred test because it can both find and remove polyps in one procedure.
What happens if a polyp is found?
Most polyps are removed during the colonoscopy and sent for analysis. Your doctor will review the results and recommend the right follow-up interval.
Can colon cancer be prevented?
Regular screening is the most effective prevention because polyps can be removed before they become cancer. A fiber-rich diet, regular exercise, healthy weight, limiting alcohol and processed meats, and not smoking also lower risk.
Does colitis increase my risk of colon cancer?
Yes. Long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis increases colorectal cancer risk, so surveillance colonoscopy is recommended every 1 to 3 years beginning 8 to 10 years after symptoms start.
Is colonoscopy painful?
Colonoscopy is performed with sedation, so most patients are comfortable and remember little of the procedure. The bowel preparation the day before is often the most challenging part.
Schedule Your Colon Cancer Screening in Los Angeles, CA
If you are due for screening or have symptoms that concern you, call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to schedule a consultation, or continue reading about gastritis.